AF Feature: Cars to look forward to, 2017 edition!

2017 will be an interesting year for us Malaysians. Let’s take a look at what new models we can expect from car makers for 2017.

Audi A5

Sitting on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform, the second-generation Audi A5 bears a close resemblance to the B9 generation Audi A4. The feature-laden Audi A5 is likely to see the inclusion of the Audi Virtual Cockpit and MMI infotainment system, allowing for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.

Audi A3 Facelift

Changes are minimal for the updated Audi A3, with the tail lights now being LED illuminated accompanied by optional Matrix LED headlights. For the driver, the Audi Virtual Cockpit is likely to be offered here as well.

Audi R8

The flagship model was delayed, as it was originally meant to have a 2016 debut. To recap, the Audi R8 boasts a 5.2-litre V10 engine with two power outputs, one with 540 horsepower coupled with 540 Nm of torque, and another beefier engine with 610 horsepower with 560 Nm of torque. Expect the latter to be paired with the 7-speed S-tronic when it arrives here.

Audi Q5

Audi pulled the covers off the second generation Q5 in September 2016, with sales expected to start in 2017. The updated Q5 now boasts a 90 kg weight reduction over its predecessor, thanks to the clever mix of high-tensile steel and aluminium. Matrix LED headlights and Audi Virtual Cockpit is also expected to be included. The 2017 Audi Q5 could see a Q4 debut next year.

BMW 5-Series (G30)

The all-new seventh-generation BMW G30 5-Series boasts more technology than its predecessor, the F10, but tips the scales less than the model it replaces. Features like Intelligent Speed Assist allows for semi-autonomous driving, updated BMW ConnectedDrive and improved fuel economy makes the G30 a worthy option when it arrives.

Ford Mondeo Facelift

The current Ford Mondeo was introduced way back in 2015 whilst the facelifted Fusion (US Mondeo) was leaked three months later. The updated Ford Fusion went official in early 2016, bringing with it several key changes. Out goes the Aston Martin-esque grille, now replaced with Ford’s current design. Another highlight is the pothole mitigation system, which can cleverly go through bumps without passengers noticing anything. SDAC could unveil the new model towards the end of 2017.

Ford Kuga Facelift

Seeing that the Ford Kuga comes fully-imported from Spain and that the updated model was revealed towards the end of 2015, it is not impossible for SDAC to introduce the new Kuga some time in 2017. Key features include the new Ford SYNC3 infotainment system, which could see the addition of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Power is expected to come from the same 1.5-litre EcoBoost mill with 180 hp and 250 Nm.

Honda BR-V

The all-new Honda BR-V is likely Honda Malaysia’s first debut for 2017, as they have already teased the car multiple times. The Honda BR-V will be positioned above the Jazz but below the HR-V. Prices are said to be in the ballpark of RM100,000. You can read our review of the Honda BR-V that AF tested in Thailand here!

Honda City Facelift

Introduced back in 2014, the Honda City remained largely unchanged throughout these two years. In order to keep the recently-updated Toyota Vios at bay, the City is likely to undergo a minor nip and tuck. We don’t expect changes to be drastic, as the City is currently the best-selling B-segment model from Honda. An updated front and rear plus some interior finishing improvements could be on the cards for the new City.

Honda Jazz Facelift

Also introduced in 2014, the Honda Jazz is the most versatile B-segment hatchback out there. The magic seats, as Honda calls it, is able to fold in various ways to accommodate different sized items when the need arises. Like the City, the Honda Jazz has remained largely unchanged since its introduction. A restyled exterior is possible, plus an updated interior.

Honda Jazz Hybrid

Earlier previewed at the Malaysia Autoshow 2016, there is a possibility that Honda will introduce the Jazz hybrid alongside the facelifted Jazz. The Honda Jazz Hybrid is powered by the company’s 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that is paired to a 7-speed DCT. Honda calls their hybrid system i-DCD Sport Hybrid.

2017 Honda CR-V

Honda recently unveiled the new generation CR-V for the North American market. The Chinese is set to receive the new CR-V in April 2017, as spyshots have indicated that tests are underway. When the Honda CR-V arrives here, expect to see Honda offering the same 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, alongside a naturally-aspirated option. Both engine choices are paired to a CVT for better fuel economy.

Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson was made available locally back in late 2015, offering buyers a lone 2.0 GDI engine paired to a six-speed automatic. For 2017, we believe that Hyundai Sime Darby Motor will introduce two new variants of the Tucson. The first is a diesel-powered Tucson CRDi, which does 182 hp and 400 Nm and a Tucson 1.6 T-GDi with 174 hp and 265 Nm. In Australia, the diesel Tucson gets a six-speed automatic, while the T-GDi variant is mated to a seven-speed DCT.

Hyundai Elantra

Hyundai’s new Elantra has gone through lots of changes. The Elantra is no longer a curvy four door sedan, as the Koreans have given the Elantra a more matured exterior. Safety kit includes Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), High Beam Assist (HBA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

Kia Grand Carnival

Like the Honda BR-V and Jazz Hybrid, Naza Kia Malaysia previewed the new Kia Grand Carnival at the Malaysia Autoshow 2016. Under the hood is a 2.2-litre turbodiesel that does 190 PS and a monstrous 440 Nm, mated to a six-speed automatic. This NHTSA 5-star rated MPV boasts a plethora of safety gear, like Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Antilock Braking System (ABS), 6 airbags, safety power windows and ISOFIX lock-in child seats.

Mazda CX-9

Big SUVs are popular these days, and Mazda knows that. The company launched the all-new CX-9 at the 2017 LA Auto Show, featuring a new turbocharged SkyActiv-G petrol engine that delivers 228 hp and 420 Nm. The Mazda CX-9 is expected to made a debut in Q2 2017, though prices are unknown at this time.

Mazda 3 Facelift

Apart from the Mazda CX-9, Bermaz could debut the updated Mazda 3 in 2017. Changes include a revised front grille, LED headlights and tail lights, and a redesigned rear bumper. The 3 now gains a new electronic parking brake, on top of larger door pockets. NVH levels are also better on the new model thanks to tighter body gaps, improved sound insulation and redesigned weather stripping.

Mazda MX5 RF

Fancy a hardtop Mazda MX5? Well, Bermaz is considering to debut the MX5 RF locally, after launching the regular MX5 in 2016. RS stands for Retractable Fastback, boasting a unique retractable hardtop can also be opened and closed with ease with a flip of a switch. We can expect Bermaz to offer the same 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G engine paired to a six-speed automatic.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class CKD

As the company launched the much-anticipated E-Class in 2016 in CBU form, it is natural for the company to introduce a CKD variant later on. In the case of the C-Class, the entry-level C200 Avantgarde had a price tag of RM285,888. The CKD variant slashed that price by RM16,000, bring the new entry price to RM269,888.

Nissan Almera

Not a new model per se, but ETCM could introduce an updated Nissan Almera in 2017, adding ESC to the B-segment sedan. The move to add ESC to the Almera is a much needed one, as the Almera is one of the few B-segment sedans that doesn’t offer ESC as an option. Powertrain is expected to be identical as the outgoing model.

2017 Perodua Myvi

As Toyota unveiled the all-new 2016 Passo in 2016, it is possible that Perodua is looking to replace its ageing Myvi, which has been around since 2011. The current Myvi was given an update in 2015, which brought a revised interior and exterior. On top of that, seeing that the govenment has mandated that ESC for new vehicles by June 2018, it is possible for the new Myvi to be fitted with ESC as well.

Proton Iriz facelift

The Proton Iriz certainly changed how some people perceived Proton. Not only is the Iriz a really safe little hatchback, it also managed to challenge Perodua at its own game. With the arrival of the 2016 Persona, the Iriz became a little long in the tooth. Proton was quick to say that improvements on the Persona will trickle down to the Iriz eventually, so we can definitely look forward to an improved version in 2017!

2017 Proton Exora

Proton’s people mover, the Exora, has been around since 2008. The model has undergone several changes throughout its lifespan, which includes powertrain changes and safety kit improvements. However, that alone isn’t enough to keep the Exora competitive. For 2017, we could see Proton fitting the new GDI engine into the updated Exora, which we believe will be an extensive facelift (think Saga).

Proton Preve facelift

Like the Proton Exora, the Proton Preve is in dire needs of updating. This supposed global model from Proton has seen a fair share of critics, ranging from underwhelming powertrain, dubious build quality and an aged design. If Proton wants to remain competitive, a major refresh is needed for the Preve. From what we understood, the updated Preve will be powered solely by turbocharged engines.

Peugeot 208 PureTech

Nasim previewed the new 208 PureTech recently, which ditches the old 1.6-litre engine and four-speed automatic. The new PureTech powertrain combines a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine to a six-speed automatic, allowing the 208 to achieve a fuel consumption of just 4.2 L/100km.

Peugeot 2008 PureTech

Sitting on the same platform as the Peugeot 208, the 2008 is essentially a pseudo crossover variant of the 208. The 2008 PureTech will receive the same powertrain as the 208, on top of new 17-inch alloy wheels and fender flares.

Peugeot 3008

The big brother to the Peugeot 2008, this 3008. Whilst the old Peugeot 3008 had a design that was neither here nor there, Peugeot has nailed it with the new 3008. The design now leans towards an SUV more than an MPV, thanks to the generous use of fender flares and body cladding. Power is derived from a 1.6-litre THP that does 165 bhp and 240 Nm that drives the front wheels via a six-speed automatic.

Peugeot 5008

Following the footsteps of its siblings, the new Peugeot 5008 will be more SUV-esque than MPV-like. Underpinning the new Peugeot 5008 is the company’s EMP2 platform that is shared with the 308 and 3008. Inside, the 5008 receives Peugeot’s signature i-cockpit plus a host of safety equipment including AEB, LKA and active cruise control.

Peugeot Traveller

Designed to make travelling (sorry) less strenuous, the Peugeot Traveller is an eight-seater MPV. PSA and Toyota worked together to develop models based on the same van. In Europe, Toyota calls their the Toyota ProAce Verso, while the Citroën version is called the SpaceTourer. Peugeot offers two variants, Expert and Traveller, with the former aimed at commercial buyers. Expect a diesel-powered version when it arrives here.

2017 Porsche Panamera

Now in its second generation, the Porsche Panamera gets a revised exterior and improved interior. Whilst the first generation model had an interior laden with buttons, Porsche has now given the Panamera a more simplistic interior called the Porsche Advanced Cockpit.

Renault Megane

The Renault Megane is now in its fourth-generation, which was officially unveiled at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. Set to challenge the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf at its own game, the Megane now looks more expensive than the the model it replaces. The Renault Megane GT Line does pack quite a punch, as its 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine can manage 275 hp and 280 Nm.

Volvo S90

Volvo is eyeing the executive saloon segment with the new S90. They are hoping to lure buyers of the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class over to the new S90, which replaces the old S80. Sitting on the same SPA platform as the XC90, the Volvo S90 also features a wagon sibling called the V90, though it is very unlikely the wagon will be introduced here. As Volvo Cars Malaysia already assembles the XC90 locally, adding the S90 is logical to increase market share.

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia has already unveiled a number of new models in 2016. For 2017, VPCM is expected to launch the new Tiguan in the first half of the year. Three variants of the Tiguan are expected, judging from their current strategy, though no diesel engines are expected.